For many businesses, the most effective way to build capability is to invest in the team you already have.
One of the best ways to build stronger teams without the disruption of external hiring is to upskill your employees with apprenticeships.
In 2026, with the introduction of the Growth and Skills Levy, shorter programme minimums, and upcoming modular training options, apprenticeships have become even more flexible and accessible. Whether you’re a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME) or a levy-paying organisation, this approach offers clear benefits and straightforward funding pathways.
Why Upskill Your Current Team with Apprenticeships?
Investing in your current team through apprenticeships is one of the smartest ways to strengthen your business in 2026. By focusing on upskilling existing employees, you can build capability, boost morale, and drive real results with minimal disruption and strong government-backed funding.
- Stronger retention — Employees who receive funded development tend to feel more valued and are more likely to stay long-term.
- Targeted, relevant skills — You can address precise gaps — whether that’s advancing compliance knowledge, strengthening business administration, enhancing leadership, or progressing hairdressing expertise.
- Efficient use of resources — Your staff already understand your business, so the learning curve is shorter and the impact is quicker.
- Low disruption — Training is primarily workplace-based, with around 6 hours per week of structured learning (online modules, mentoring, shadowing) that fits around normal duties.
- Shorter timelines — Many programmes now run for a minimum of 8 months, and prior experience can reduce this further through recognition of prior learning.
At Central Training Academy, we’ve supported businesses across sectors to achieve exactly these outcomes — from government departments enhancing their risk and compliance teams, to organisations looking to improve their customer service or leadership capability. Get in touch now to see how we can help upskill your staff.
Who Qualifies?
Existing employees of any age can undertake an apprenticeship provided it delivers substantial new knowledge, skills, and behaviours relevant to their role.
We begin with a simple skills scan and initial assessment to confirm suitability and identify any prior learning that can shorten the programme. Wages remain at the employee’s current level (no reduction to apprentice rates is required), provided they meet or exceed the National Minimum Wage (from April 2026: £8.00/hour for under-19s or first-year apprentices, then age-based rates thereafter).
Off-the-job training is required but flexible — typically equivalent to about 20% of working time, delivered in a way that minimises impact on day-to-day operations.
Note: From January 2026, Level 7 apprenticeships have age-related funding restrictions, but the majority of our Level 2–4 programmes remain fully accessible.
Funding: Clear Options for SMEs and Levy Employers
Central Training Academy manages the administrative side so you can focus on your business. Funding covers training and end-point assessment; you cover wages and any applicable co-investment.
| Business Type | Funding Summary (2026) | Your Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| SMEs (Non-Levy) | Government funds 95–100% of training costs. From August 2026, 100% funding for apprentices under 25. | Wages + any small top-up (often none) |
| Levy-Paying Employers | Draw from your Apprenticeship Service account (transitioning to Growth & Skills Levy). Covers up to 100% within funding bands. | Wages (plus higher co-investment if levy funds are exhausted) |
Key 2026 updates:
- Modular “apprenticeship units” become fundable from April 2026 — ideal for focused, shorter upskilling.
- Levy payers can transfer unused funds to support SMEs in their supply chain.
No VAT is charged on training, and the employee contributes nothing financially.
For the latest official guidance see:
The Process – Step by Step with Central Training Academy
- Discuss your needs We talk through the skills gaps and identify the most suitable programme.
- Choose the right apprenticeship Options include:
- Assessment & planning We carry out the skills scan, create a tailored training plan, and handle enrolment.
- Start training Flexible, mostly on-site delivery with regular progress reviews (every 8–12 weeks).
- Complete & certify Independent end-point assessment leads to the qualification and any final funding claims.
We support you throughout — including during any breaks in learning.
For more on the overall recruitment and hiring process, see our related guides:
Practical Examples
- A levy-paying organisation accesses modular units (from April 2026) for targeted compliance or fraud investigation training, fully funded from their levy pot.
- A small salon upskills a junior stylist to Hairdressing Level 3, benefiting from full funding for under-25s (from August 2026) and gaining advanced technical skills with minimal salon disruption.
- A business uses Business Administration Level 3 to develop an existing administrator, shortening the programme thanks to prior experience and improving overall efficiency.
Next Steps
With funding becoming more flexible and programmes shorter, 2026 is an excellent time to invest in your existing team.
Contact Central Training Academy for a no-obligation discussion. We’ll review your team’s needs, confirm eligibility and funding, recommend the best programme, and manage the process from start to finish.
Get in touch today or explore our full range of apprenticeships. Let’s help your people and your business grow stronger in 2026.
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